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Papermaker

Overview of the role

Working as a machine operator or an assistant in the overall papermaking process converting raw materials into paper products

Reference Number: ST0296

Details of standard

Occupation

The Papermaker operates machinery both individually, or as part of a team, to convert raw materials to paper products in an operator or assistant role in the process for Pulping, Drying, Reeling, Coating, basic Maintenance and Quality Control Testing. Working with minimum supervision the Papermaker has knowledge of the entire process.

Profile

Papermakers work in a wide range of manufacturing organizations, including but not exclusively, newspaper, office papers, packaging and board, tissue, speciality, security, medical, currency and tea bag. Paper can be made from a variety of natural fibres such as soft and hard woods, abaca, bagasse, cotton and esparto depending on the product and paper machine being used. The Papermaker will manufacture the product from raw materials using a variety of equipment such as debarkers, pulpers, de-inkers, beaters, refiners and site specific paper machines.

Occupational Skills & Knowledge

Job role

Skill

Knowledge and understanding

Communication

Communicate effectively using a full range of techniques: speaking; listening; writing; body language and presentation.

Systems and processes associated with exchange/recording of information required for the role.

Health, Safety, Environment

Work safely on a paper machine and other specific areas of the mill, maintaining excellent housekeeping.

Be aware of environmental controls and impact.

Site and process safety, environment and risk management systems.

Compliance with statutory, industry and company health, safety and environmental regulations.

Quality & Testing

Test the paper to site and customer specifications using a variety of testing equipment and methods.

Take responsibility for decisions on quality.

Quality processes and procedures to meet the requirements of quality standards relevant to the organization.

Quality compliance requirements.

Stock Preparation (Virgin & Recovered fibres)

Prepare fresh water and primary and secondary fibres and test the properties of material.

Operate machines such as mechanical pulpers, chemical pulpers, refiners, de-inkers and other such equipment to produce the specifications required for the paper machine for a specific sector.

Mechanical pulpers, chemical pulpers, refiners, de-inkers and other such equipment are used to produce optimal flow and required specifications.

Stock Approach & Wet End Chemistry

Produce machine stock through mixing of fibres, additives and colours.

Control consistency, dilution, screening and cleaning of stock.

Control the use of chemical additives to enhance and improve paper properties utilizing sizing, starch, bleaching and brightening agents.

Control the use of chemicals to improve runnability such as de-foamers, fixatives and biocides.

Behaviours

The required attitudes, behaviours and interpersonal skills associated with the professional workplace.

Active promotion of positive safety behaviours at all times

The ability to work effectively as an individual and as part of a team.

Proactivity in finding solutions to problems.

A commitment to quality and continuous improvement.

A recognition and appreciation of equality and diversity in the workplace.

The ability to handle change and respond to change management processes.

Qualifications

All apprentices will be required to achieve a Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Performing Engineering Operations or equivalent as a pre-requisite to taking the end-point assessment process.

Apprentices without level 2 English and Mathematics will need to achieve this level prior to completion of their Apprenticeship.

Entry Requirements

Individual employers will identify any relevant entry requirements. Most candidates will typically have GCSEs (or equivalent) at A* - C including a minimum of Mathematics, English, ITC and possibly a relevant science.